Movies Where Black Characters Get to Be Nerdy and Adorkable

The archetype of the nerd has evolved significantly in cinema to include a diverse range of backgrounds and personalities. Filmmakers now frequently showcase Black characters who embrace intellectual pursuits or awkward social tendencies rather than limiting them to stereotypical roles. These films celebrate intelligence and eccentricity by placing these characters at the center of the narrative or giving them crucial roles in the ensemble. Audiences enjoy seeing these individuals save the day with their brains or find love through their quirky charm.

‘Dope’ (2015)

Malcolm Adekanbi is a high school geek obsessed with 90s hip hop culture living in a tough neighborhood. He plays in a punk band and hopes to attend Harvard while navigating dangerous situations with his friends. The film explores his struggle to define his identity outside the stereotypes imposed by his environment. Malcolm proves that being a nerd is a valid and powerful way to exist in Inglewood.

‘Black Panther’ (2018)

Shuri serves as the head of the Wakandan Design Group and possesses an intellect that rivals the greatest minds in the Marvel universe. She develops the advanced technology that powers the nation and protects her brother T’Challa. Her character combines technological brilliance with a playful and youthful spirit that challenges traditional royal decorum. Audiences see a young Black woman leading global innovation without compromising her vibrant personality.

‘Hidden Figures’ (2016)

Three brilliant African-American mathematicians play pivotal roles at NASA during the early years of the U.S. space program. Katherine Johnson calculates flight trajectories for Project Mercury and other missions while fighting racial and gender segregation. Dorothy Vaughan teaches herself Fortran programming to ensure her team remains relevant in the computer age. Mary Jackson petitions the courts to attend night classes so she can become an engineer.

‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse’ (2018)

Miles Morales tries to adjust to an elite boarding school where he feels out of place due to his background and academic pressure. He gains superpowers after a spider bite and must learn to navigate the multiverse alongside other spider-heroes. Miles balances his love for physics and art while discovering what it means to wear the mask. The film highlights his intelligence and creativity as essential tools for saving the city.

‘Rye Lane’ (2023)

Dom and Yas meet by chance in South London and bond over their recent messy breakups during an impromptu day together. They visit galleries and markets while engaging in rapid-fire banter about music and relationships. Dom displays a sensitive and awkward charm that contrasts with the more chaotic energy Yas brings to their dynamic. This romantic comedy celebrates Black joy through a lens of quirky vulnerability and artistic expression.

‘The Blackening’ (2022)

Clifton arrives at a cabin weekend with his former college friends expecting a fun reunion but finding himself on the outside of the group dynamic. He identifies as a staunch rule follower who values intellect and proper behavior over partying. The plot twists reveal how his feelings of alienation as the resident nerd drive the horror elements of the story. Clifton challenges the monolithic view of Blackness by asserting his right to be different.

‘Dear White People’ (2014)

Lionel Higgins is a shy student journalist who struggles to fit into the various social cliques at Winchester University. He observes the racial tensions on campus from a distance before finding his voice through his writing. Lionel navigates his identity as a Black gay man who loves sci-fi and alternative culture. His character arc involves moving from a passive observer to an active participant in the campus discourse.

‘Us’ (2019)

Gabe Wilson just wants to provide a perfect summer vacation for his family at their Santa Cruz lake house. He wears a Howard University sweatshirt and constantly makes dad jokes that embarrass his children. Gabe attempts to protect his family from their tethered doppelgängers but often relies on his wife to take the lead in combat. His character represents a lovable and slightly goofy suburban dad who is endearing in his awkwardness.

‘Nope’ (2022)

Angel Torres works at an electronics store and becomes entangled in a mission to capture evidence of an extraterrestrial entity. He installs the camera equipment for the Haywood siblings and refuses to leave the ranch because of his fascination with the unknown. Angel serves as the conspiracy theorist who provides technical expertise and comic relief during tense moments. His dedication to the truth and his inquisitive nature make him a crucial ally in the fight.

‘Power Rangers’ (2017)

Billy Cranston is a high school student on the autism spectrum who becomes the Blue Ranger. He uses his exceptional memory and technical skills to help the team unlock their potential and locate the Zeo Crystal. Billy bonds with the other outcasts and finds a sense of belonging that he previously lacked in his life. The film portrays his intelligence as a superpower that is just as valuable as his combat abilities.

‘Paper Towns’ (2015)

Radar is the loyal best friend who spends his time editing a massive online encyclopedia called Omnipedia. He helps the protagonist search for a missing girl by using his organizational skills and logical thinking. Radar navigates his own romantic relationship while grounding the group with his sensible approach to their road trip adventure. The character avoids the sidekick trope by having a distinct personality and personal goals.

‘Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves’ (2023)

Simon Aumar is a descendant of a legendary wizard but struggles with a lack of confidence in his own magical abilities. He joins a band of thieves to retrieve a lost relic and must overcome his self-doubt to master the helmet of disjunction. Simon represents the classic insecure spellcaster who eventually finds his inner strength through friendship and perseverance. His journey resonates with anyone who has felt like an impostor in their chosen field.

‘Safety Not Guaranteed’ (2012)

Darius Britt is a disillusioned intern who accompanies a journalist to investigate a man who placed a classified ad seeking a time travel companion. She bonds with the eccentric Kenneth by feigning interest in his mission but eventually finds herself believing in him. Darius uses her dry wit and guarded intelligence to navigate the absurdity of the situation. Her character finds romance and adventure by embracing the weirdness rather than mocking it.

‘Godzilla vs. Kong’ (2021)

Bernie Hayes hosts a conspiracy theory podcast and infiltrates Apex Cybernetics to uncover corporate corruption. He teams up with two teenagers to expose the truth about the mechanical titan being built in secret. Bernie carries a flask of whiskey and relies on his paranoia to keep him safe while navigating the destruction. His technical knowledge and refusal to accept the official narrative prove vital to saving the city.

‘Ghostbusters’ (2016)

Patty Tolan is an MTA worker who joins the team of paranormal investigators after witnessing a ghost in the subway. She brings a deep knowledge of New York City history and geography that the scientists lack. Patty provides the team with their vehicle and designs the uniforms they wear during their missions. Her character demonstrates that intelligence comes in many forms beyond just academic degrees.

‘Booksmart’ (2019)

Alan is a high-achieving student who competes with the main characters for academic validation and prestige. He reveals that his flamboyant and intense personality is a cover for his own insecurities about the future. Alan attends the graduation party to show that he can have fun despite his reputation as a drama geek. His interactions with the other students humanize the archetype of the overzealous theater kid.

Tell us which of these characters resonated with you the most in the comments.